Today's the day

Wonderful day. Left at 6.15 for the 2.20 launch. We had to pass through Kennedy Space Center security and wait for the bus to be checked before getting back on and driving out to the causeway.

Out there about 5 thousand people lined the banks and waited for over four hours for the launch. The bonus was that all NASA land not in direct use is a protected wildlife area and the expanse of water between us and the shuttle was dotted with island holding Roseatte Spoonbills (very much the colours of a flamingo, esp. in flight), osprey, brown pelicans, dolphins etc.
It was warm, about 32c, but had a slight breeze to help keep us cool. Countdown went well until approx. 40 minutes before lift off when a loose ball bearing was found and there was some concern it may be called off.
However, it was all ok and at exactly 2.20 there was lift off, as sight that cannot be described in words. The sheer power is mind blowing and the light coming from the fuel burning is like looking at a huge welder. After it reaches over 2,000 mph it almost disappears and huge rolls of sound start coming over the water.